The regions of Fiji are referred to as districts and are divided geographically. In total, there are four districts in Fiji. The island of Rotuma is distinguished separately; it is located further north than the rest of the archipelago and holds the status of a dependent territory.
Fiji comprises a total of three hundred islands. Only a few of them are of significant size, and people inhabit just a third of the archipelago. Some islands are so small that they can accommodate no more than twelve tourists at a time, making them ideal for those seeking privacy during their vacation.
Central Regions of Fiji
Central District
The Central District of Fiji includes the eastern part of the island of Viti Levu, the island of Mbenga, and many small islets scattered throughout this part of the Pacific Ocean.
The eastern part of Viti Levu Island is covered in dense broadleaf forest, featuring mangroves, palm trees, and various shrubs. The climate in this region is highly humid, especially during the summer months.
The east coast of the island receives the most rainfall, and the southeastern coast borders Kandavu Bay. Locals on the eastern side of the island are primarily involved in tourism and many engage in dairy farming. The island's composition is mainly volcanic rocks.
Attractions on the east coast of Viti Levu include the cultural center Orchid Island with parks and a Cultural Village, where you can observe local handicrafts and purchase souvenirs. There's also the renowned Coral Beach, the resort area of the island with its beaches and hotels. The islands of Kandavu and Yanuka County are also popular resort destinations.
The largest city in Fiji's regions is the capital of the archipelago, Suva. It serves as a harbor town and is home to educational institutions, including part of the university, museums, and parks. Fiji's international airport is located in Nadi, the second-largest city in the country.
Mbenga Island, situated eight kilometers from Viti Levu, is a small island covered in palm forests and is particularly appealing to tourists due to its vibrant fire-related traditions.
Western Regions of Fiji
Western District
The Western District of Fiji includes the western part of the island of Viti Levu, as well as the Yasawa Islands and the separate small islands of Viva, Vaya, and Velulele. The region also encompasses the Conway coral reef.
The western part of Viti Levu is often referred to as the "Burning West" due to its hot and dry weather. Along the west coast of the island, you'll find numerous resorts and extensive sugar cane plantations. The central city of the region, Lautoka, is also situated on the west coast of Viti Levu. It is often called "Sugar City" because of the many sugar cane plantations in the vicinity. In addition to sugar production, Lautoka is a major seaport of Fiji and is known for wine and beer production, as well as the creation of original jewelry.
From Viti Levu to the Yasawa Islands is approximately 40 kilometers to the northwest. Until recently, the Yasawa Islands were off-limits to tourists, but in recent decades, resorts have begun to appear there. This small archipelago consists of islands with names like Yasawa, Naviti, Waia, Waia Laitai, Natula, Taveva, and Yaketa. The Yasawa Islands feature picturesque green mountains and white beaches with clean fine sand at their base. The famous movie "Blue Lagoon" was filmed in the Yasawa Islands.
Northern Regions of Fiji
Northern District
The Northern District of Fiji includes the second-largest island in the archipelago, Vanua Levu, along with the Tunuloa Peninsula. It also encompasses the smaller islands of Taveuni, Rabi, Kioa, and several tiny ones.
Vanua Levu is less developed compared to its counterpart, Viti Levu, making it an interesting destination for those interested in Fijian ethnography. Some settlements on Vanua Levu have preserved their tribal way of life and ancient traditions. The island boasts several archaeological sites open to tourists and is an excellent place for birdwatching, a famous feature of the Fiji Islands.
The county capital, Labasa, is surrounded by sugar cane plantations, which are the primary source of income for the city. Secluded resorts around Labasa are appreciated by both foreigners and Fijians. Another town on the island, Savusavu, is known for coconut farming, copra production, and hot springs in its center.
The forested Tunuloa Peninsula is a popular hiking destination and offers opportunities to observe nesting birds on the islands.
Taveuni Island is connected by ferry to Vanua Levu and has an airport served by flights from Suva and Nadi. The island's main attraction is its extensive coral reef, drawing divers to explore Fiji's rich underwater world. The village of Dakuniba on Taveuni features petroglyphs painted on stones, and there are twelve small resorts on the island where you can enjoy the ocean and tropical greenery in solitude.
Rotuma Island Dependency
The volcanic, coconut palm-covered Rotuma Island enjoys partial autonomy within Fiji. It is inhabited by the Rotuma people, a distinct ethnic group. The Rotuma people maintain a clan system with rotating chiefs. Their main occupations include copra production and various wood-based crafts. The island has its capital, Ahau, and the port city of Motusa.
Eastern Regions of Fiji
Eastern District
The Eastern District of Fiji comprises numerous small islands, with the largest among them being Kandavu and Ovalau. Both islands have small towns, and Kandavu has an airport. These islands are known for their large bird nests. The primary occupations of the inhabitants of all the islands in the Eastern District include coconut cultivation, copra production, and fishing. Tourism plays a significant role in the financial well-being of the islanders.
Eastern District Islands:
- Ovalau
- Kandavu
- Ngau
- Koro
- Nairai
- Moala
- Matuku
- Watu Wara
- Naitaba
- Mango
- Chichia
- Tuvuca
- Lakemba
- Vanua-Vatu
- Oneata
- Vuacava
- Cambara
- Fulaga
